BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
NEGROS Occidental – Six remnants of the communist terrorist group (CTG) were killed and eight high-powered firearms were seized during a clash with government troops in Barangay Gatuslao, Candoni town in this province early yesterday morning, November 21.
The identities of the slain New People’s Army (NPA) fighters were still under verification as of this writing.
The encounter, which began at 3:43 a.m., involved personnel from the Philippine Army’s 47th and 15th Infantry Battalions (IB). The operation was launched following a tip-off from local residents about the presence of armed remnants of the dismantled South West Front (SWF) under the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor (KR-NCBS).
Major Ivy Arcangeles, chief of the 3rd Division Public Affairs Office, confirmed the successful operation.
“The firefight lasted approximately 40 minutes, resulting in the deaths of six NPA members and the recovery of high-powered firearms. This marks a significant engagement for the Army against CTG remnants in Negros,” Arcangeles said.
Recovered weapons include five M16 rifles, two AK-47 rifles, and one M653 rifle.
Meanwhile, no casualties were reported on the government side.
The Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division, led by Major General Marion Sison, praised the troops for their swift action and professionalism in the operation.
“This encounter demonstrates the effectiveness of our troops in securing communities and responding to intelligence provided by vigilant citizens,” Sison remarked.
Sison also reiterated his appeal to remaining CTG members, urging them to abandon armed struggle.
“We continue to call on you to choose peace. Surrender and return to the fold of the law. Your families and communities, as well as the government, are ready to help you rebuild your lives,” he said./PN
